When older adults seek treatment for depression, anxiety, or other conditions such as obsessive/compulsive behavior and substance abuse, health care professionals frequently fail to consider the possible diagnosis of Attention Deficit Disorder. Usually their symptoms are attributed to the problems of aging such as stress from losses, retirement, and memory decline. For many years ADD was thought to be only a childhood disorder. We now know that between 25 to 35 percent of children diagnosed with ADD will continue having the disorder into adulthood. It was only during this last decade that adults were recognized as having ADD and few if any research studies have been done regarding ADD in older adults. Receiving the proper diagnosis and treatment can help those over 55 who have ADD significantly.

This guide describes assessment methods and treatment modalities, which can be used for older adults by non-gerontologically trained professionals. Techniques for differentiating between other disorders and ADD are included in this guide. Unique characteristics presented by older adults with ADD are discussed and compared to younger adults with ADD. Coping skills, which often mask the symptoms making assessment very difficult, are addressed and treatment methods applicable to older adults with ADD are presented in this guide. Additional sources of information on ADD and support groups are presented in the appendices.